Introduction:
If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal, look no further than this Amish Hamburger Steak Bake. This delicious dish combines flavorful hamburger patties, creamy potatoes, onions, and a rich homemade gravy, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. It’s a wholesome, filling meal perfect for family dinners or a cozy night at home. Inspired by traditional Amish cooking, which focuses on simple yet satisfying ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. The layers of tender potatoes and onions, coupled with seasoned hamburger steaks, make each bite a comforting delight.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups milk, divided
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 4-5 medium Russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional toppings: Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This will ensure the bake doesn’t stick to the dish.
Step 2: Season and Form the Patties
- In a large bowl, combine 1.5 lbs of ground beef, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, salt, and black pepper to taste.
- Mix the ingredients until well combined, then divide the mixture into 6 equal portions and form each portion into a patty. Set the patties aside.
Step 3: Brown the Patties
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the patties and brown them on both sides. You don’t need to cook them all the way through—just sear the outsides for flavor and texture.
- Once browned, transfer the patties to a plate and set them aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Gravy
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Whisk together ¼ cup of all-purpose flour with 1 cup of milk until smooth, making sure there are no lumps.
- Slowly add the mixture to the skillet, stirring constantly to avoid clumping. Gradually add the remaining 1 cup of milk while continuing to whisk.
- Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently until it thickens slightly. Once thickened, remove it from the heat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Layer the Potatoes, Onions, and Patties
- In the prepared baking dish, start by layering half of the thinly sliced potatoes and half of the onions evenly across the bottom.
- Place the browned hamburger patties on top of the potatoes and onions.
- Then, layer the remaining potatoes and onions over the top of the patties.
- Pour the prepared gravy evenly over the entire dish, ensuring it covers all the layers.
Step 6: Bake
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 1 hour to allow the potatoes to become tender and the flavors to meld.
- After 1 hour, uncover the dish and sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
Cooking Notes:
- Potato Slicing: Make sure to slice the potatoes thinly and evenly to ensure they cook through. Using a mandoline slicer is a great way to achieve uniform slices.
- Gravy Consistency: If the gravy seems too thick after cooking, you can add a bit more milk to thin it out before pouring it over the layers.
- Cheese: Cheddar cheese adds a nice sharpness, but feel free to use other cheeses like mozzarella, Colby Jack, or a cheese blend for a different flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble this dish a day ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
Serving Suggestions:
This Amish Hamburger Steak Bake is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for added freshness. A slice of crusty bread or garlic toast also pairs wonderfully with the creamy texture of the potatoes and gravy. Garnish the top with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness before serving.
It’s a great dish for family gatherings, potlucks, or even a Sunday dinner. The leftovers reheat well and make for a quick and delicious meal the next day!
Tips:
- Potato Variety: Russet potatoes work best because they hold their shape and become tender when baked. Yukon Golds are another great option if you want a creamier texture.
- Gravy Variations: For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or Dijon mustard to the gravy while cooking. You could also stir in a little grated Parmesan for a rich umami boost.
- Browning for Flavor: Be sure to brown the patties well, as this creates a delicious crust that adds flavor to the overall dish.
- Customize the Layers: Feel free to add layers of vegetables like thinly sliced carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the oven.
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cooking Time:
1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time:
1 hour 35 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings):
- Calories: Approximately 520 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 420mg
Conclusion:
This Amish Hamburger Steak Bake is the epitome of comforting, homemade food. With tender slices of potatoes, flavorful hamburger patties, a rich gravy, and a cheesy finish, it’s a dish that brings the best of country cooking to your table. It’s hearty, satisfying, and sure to become a favorite among family and friends. Whether served for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this bake is a winner every time!
PrintAmish Hamburger Steak Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups milk, divided
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 4–5 medium Russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional toppings: Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This will ensure the bake doesn’t stick to the dish.
Step 2: Season and Form the Patties
- In a large bowl, combine 1.5 lbs of ground beef, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, salt, and black pepper to taste.
- Mix the ingredients until well combined, then divide the mixture into 6 equal portions and form each portion into a patty. Set the patties aside.
Step 3: Brown the Patties
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the patties and brown them on both sides. You don’t need to cook them all the way through—just sear the outsides for flavor and texture.
- Once browned, transfer the patties to a plate and set them aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Gravy
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Whisk together ¼ cup of all-purpose flour with 1 cup of milk until smooth, making sure there are no lumps.
- Slowly add the mixture to the skillet, stirring constantly to avoid clumping. Gradually add the remaining 1 cup of milk while continuing to whisk.
- Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently until it thickens slightly. Once thickened, remove it from the heat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Layer the Potatoes, Onions, and Patties
- In the prepared baking dish, start by layering half of the thinly sliced potatoes and half of the onions evenly across the bottom.
- Place the browned hamburger patties on top of the potatoes and onions.
- Then, layer the remaining potatoes and onions over the top of the patties.
- Pour the prepared gravy evenly over the entire dish, ensuring it covers all the layers.
Step 6: Bake
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 1 hour to allow the potatoes to become tender and the flavors to meld.
- After 1 hour, uncover the dish and sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 520 kcal
- Sodium: 420mg
- Protein: 30g